California Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Monday that President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. Department of Justice to launch an investigation into him and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom.
The governor made the statement during a press conference in Sacramento, alleging that the probe is politically motivated and part of a broader pattern of retaliation by the Trump administration against Democratic leaders. Newsom did not provide specific evidence of the investigation but asserted that the DOJ had been instructed to scrutinize his personal and professional dealings, as well as those of his wife, a documentary filmmaker.
The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between the White House and California, which has been a frequent target of Trump's criticism over issues such as immigration, environmental regulations, and homelessness. Newsom vowed to cooperate fully with any inquiry while accusing the president of abusing federal power to settle political scores.
The DOJ has not publicly confirmed or denied the investigation. This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the Trump administration and one of the nation's most prominent Democratic governors, potentially setting the stage for a high-profile legal battle.
Political analysts say the move could energize both Trump's base and Newsom's supporters as the nation approaches the 2026 midterm elections. Newsom's office declined to comment further, referring all inquiries to his public statement.
The governor's wife has also not responded to requests for comment.